Architects and Building Designers

Is the scope of your home design project beyond simply replacing countertops or flooring? It’s the responsibility of a home architect to transform human needs and desires into visual concepts and habitable structures. When you hire an architectural designer, you are not only hiring someone for their architectural services, but also to manage and coordinate other parties involved in the project. As you search through interior architects and designers, keep in mind the following tips to help you choose the perfect one: More

"Working with Jimmy Crisp and his associates was a great and valuable learning experience that could not have turned out better than it did. Jimmy truly met, and in many instances, went beyond our expectations. The project, which was a complete gut renovation, went very smoothly and it did come in on budget with the exception of new items that were included after our original quote. Of course there were differences of opinions and long discussions about changes/desired outcomes and new costs, however, I would say that because of Jimmy's constant presence at the site, complete knowledge of exactly what was suppose to happen at all stages of the project and calm manner we escaped situations that could, at the time, have been less satisfactory. Jimmy, the associates and clerical employees of his firm are all a 10 in my book! My experience with Crisp Architects makes me believe that anyone seeking a great architect, backed by a most professional staff, could not do better than to choose Crisp Architects."

- carolsmerling

Studio S Squared Architecture, Inc.

Architects and Building Designers

"Eugene Sakai stood out far above the pack of the 5 Architectural firms that we investigated to do our total house construction. He was simply the best to deal with, very professional, on time, and took a personal interest in the project, and within budget. We moved in 2 years ago and still love him and the contractor, C.W. Wright in San Carlos. We are pleased to show the house through Eugene Sakai at any time."

- wfeejr

Cummings Architects

Architects and Building Designers

"Could not be happier! Mathew and his staff were very helpful during every phase of the project. They took the time to explain to me and my husband what needed to be done and very often gave us helpful ideas. We went into the project with a strong idea of what we wanted. Mat not only helped us bring those ideas to life, he also offered ways to improve upon those ideas in ways that I could never have thought of. Our family could not have been happier with the result and we constantly get compliments from everyone! I would highly recommend Mat to anyone!"

- jodiruebel

Brandon Architects, Inc.

Architects and Building Designers

"I am a local builder in Corona Del Mar, CA. I have watched and admired the many homes Brandon Architects has designed in the area. It did not take me long to realize this firm had many talents. By the time my next project came along, I made sure I would consult with this firm first. From their initial presentation to the drawings and site visits, I have been nothing but impressed. Chris and his team have proved to me they have talent, creativity and professionalism. My project is currently just past the framing stage, and Chris and his team visit my site frequently. Each time they prove to me they are there to assist and support me all the way to completion.
I look forward to working with Brandon Architects for years to come.
Frank Ultimo
Team Ultimo Real Estate & Development, Inc."

- Team Ultimo Real Estate & Development, Inc.

JCD Custom Home Design

Architects and Building Designers

"We are so pleased with our home that was drawn by Joe Carrick Design.
We have always been treated like a priority!
While building our home we never hesitated to call and ask questions and they have always been extremely quick and helpful!
We are completely satisfied with their integrity and honesty with our project and consider them our friends.
We recommend Joe Carrick Design to anyone looking to build a quality, economical, and beautiful home!
"

- mithighland

Period Architecture Ltd.

Architects and Building Designers

"Joe Mackin and his firm designed us the most beautiful new house. He designed an 1800's style, stone farm house look that is amazing. The attention to detail is incredible. People have been to the house and can't decide if it's just an old house that was added on to, or a new house. We have worked with a handful of architects over the years, and Joe, by far, has been the BEST. We also did not use a builder, my husband an were the general contractors of the house, which is approximately 7,000 sq. feet."

- lbi6

Noble Johnson Architects

Architects and Building Designers

"Working with Bill was fantastic. He listened to what we wanted, was responsive to our needs, and helped us successfully navigate a lot of tricky issues surrounding renovations on a historical home. We were thrilled with the results!"

- cnsking

Brickmoon Design

Architects and Building Designers

"We hired Brickmoon Design to draw plans for our small 1920 bungalow to add a 2nd bath and were hoping to get the washer/dryer into the house (from the garage). They came up with 2 main ideas, took dimensions and we had the survey done, but we have not made a decision on whether to 1) stay within our small 1350 sf footprint, or 2) add onto the house at a substantially higher cost. My husband doesn't want to spend the extra money to add on but I like the addition idea the best, so we have not gone any further. So far, we are out about $5,000 for plans and survey but are stalled. Brickmoon gave us exactly what we asked for, but I still think there has got to be a cost effective way to add an additional 200-300 square feet. Am I dreaming?"

- redan

Dan Nelson, Designs Northwest Architects

Architects and Building Designers

"As General Contractors, we have had the privilege of working with Dan Nelson and the great folks at Designs Northwest Architects on many projects, some award winning. We recommend them highly and look forward to working with them on many projects in the future! ~ RGN Construction, LLC, Seattle WA"

- RGN Construction

Geschke Group Architecture

Architects and Building Designers

"Kai Geschke combined creativity and german efficiancy to design the perfect custom home for us! He listened carefully to our wants and needs and incorporated them beautifully into the technical work he did as our architect. He helped us think about aspects of designing a home that never would have occured to us and provided expertise in all the areas that we hired a professional for, while being considerate of our tastes and special needs. He worked to accomodate our timing and is quick to respond to questions or concerns. He has been great about making changes and seeing this process through to our complete satisfaction. We recommend him highly!"

How do I find the best architect for my home design project?

It is best to hire a home architect who will be involved in all phases of the design process, from the initial concept to the completed construction. The architect is often the first person you will hire for your project. If necessary, they might also help you select and hire subcontractors, which can include the builders, engineers and landscaper. Interior architects are also involved in negotiating contracts for all involved participants. It is for these reasons that it is extremely important for you to have a good relationship with the residential architect you hire. He or she can be the tie-breaking vote between you and the general contractor and can be your biggest advocate during the construction process. Different architecture firms provide different services, so the scope of the work can span from pre-design environmental impact studies to selecting furniture and finishes, depending on what your specific needs are.

What sort of process can I expect from a residential architect?

As far as the process goes, the architecture firm or individual that you choose will start with concept drawings and finish with construction drawings and documents. Some firms even design with 3D renderings and videos, but that should not be assumed. There should be plenty of meetings between you and your building designer until you have agreed upon a design that you are completely happy with. Always keep in mind that the designer will have building codes to follow, and likely pre-existing design limitations when dealing with a remodel, so while they might not be able to execute your exact ideas they always have your safety and aesthetics in mind. One of the most important duties of a residential architect is to serve as managers and supervise most aspects of construction, as well as facilitate communication between all other contractors, so you can expect them to be present throughout the entire building process to ensure everything is executed as planned.

It is very important to hire the right professional for the job. Remember that the most well-known or established designer might not provide the best architectural services for your needs. It all comes down to the individual project. Research and ask people whose work you like for recommendations. It's important to have somewhat of an idea of the style of house architecture that you prefer, as well as the amount you would like to spend. Residential architects are natural problem solvers. They will assess the entire situation and help you to solve your problems too. Don't settle for a single company too early. Call and interview a few. Make sure that you feel like your personalities will mesh well and that you like their professional perspective.

Questions to ask prospective interior architects:

What is your fee structure?

What does the cost include?

Do you have professional liability insurance?

Can you handle my special requests (ADA, LEED etc.)?

What types of renderings (3D, video, illustrative) will you produce?

What is your experience with similar projects?

When do you expect to start and be finished with the project?

What do your services include? (It's best that the services are until construction is completed.)

What happens when the cost exceeds the budget?

Can you provide me with references?

Would you say your work has a defining style? (This is important in case the architect's personal style will interfere with your vision.)

Will you help with hiring a general contractor and subcontractors?

What do you estimate the cost will be?

What will I need to provide?

Are there any complications you foresee with this project?

Find a home architect on Houzz. Narrow your search in the Professionals section of the website to architects. You may also look through photos of projects to find interior architects and building designers who have worked on a project similar to yours.